CLEVELAND — Cleveland State University officials are warning the campus community after an "unprecedented" increase in car theft.
On Saturday, Dec. 10, CSU officials sent out an email to the campus community regarding the recent car thefts on campus.
According to officials, between 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday afternoon, three vehicle break-ins/attempted thefts were reported, and another two vehicles were stolen. All five of the cars involved were Kia or Hyundai Models.
The incidents took place at the Langston and South Garage. Both of the stolen cars have since been recovered.
In order to deal with the increase in crime, CSU is adding extra levels of patrolling to campus parking lots and garages.
They asked community members to take extra precautions such as "not leaving visible property inside your car, making sure your windows are rolled up all the way, and locking your vehicle."
The full email sent out from Cleveland State officials to the CSU community can be read below:
Over the last 24 hours we have seen an unprecedented increase in the theft and attempted theft of cars on campus. Since 7 p.m. yesterday, three vehicle break-ins/attempted thefts have been reported and two vehicles were stolen. The incidents occurred at the Langston and the South Garage. The two stolen cars have been recovered.
All five of the cars involved were Kia or Hyundai models. There has been a nationwide increase in the theft of cars from these two automakers sparked by a social media trend. If you own one of these vehicles, you may want to consider using a steering wheel club as an additional security measure.
We are increasing patrols of CSU parking lots and garages. You can help by not leaving visible property inside your car, making sure your windows are rolled up all the way, and locking your vehicle.
If you see something or someone suspicious, or you witness a crime, call CSU Police immediately by dialing 9-1-1 (ask for CSU Police), or 216-687-2020. You can also contact CSU Police by using the RAVE Guardian App. Be prepared to give the Police Dispatcher a detailed description of the incident or person(s) involved.
Please always remember to:
-Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings.
-Walk with confidence and purpose.
-Use well-lit public walkways.
-Walk with a friend.
-Avoid texting or displaying a smart phone while traveling.
-Use the CSU escort service by calling (216) 687-2020.
-Download the free Rave Guardian safety app for your iPhone or Android phone.
If you become a victim of a crime, on or near campus, contact CSUPD right away. They will respond and/or connect you with additional help including on campus support like CARE.
EDITOR'S NOTE: The video above previously aired on 3News on Nov. 17, 2022.